Reverend Corey J. Neal was born December 27, 1975, in Fort Benning, Georgia. Shortly after his birth, Reverend Neal moved to Pemberton, New Jersey. He received a Christian Education at Kings Academy Christian School. After graduating from King's Academy, Reverend Neal decided to return to Columbus, Georgia, to be closer to his grandparents and other family members. Immediately, Reverend Neal began attending worship services at Greater Peace Baptist Church, pastored by his grandfather, Reverend E. L. Sullivan. He always enjoyed hearing his grandfather minister the Word of God and wanted to emulate him as a God-fearing man.

Reverend Neal attended Columbus State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, with a special emphasis in Business Administration. Later, he earned his Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management from Troy State University at Fort Benning, Georgia. Reverend Neal earned another master’s degree in Organization and Management from Capella University.

Reverend Neal’s spiritual journey began as a child at New Life Assembly Church in Wrightstown, New Jersey. Before being called as the senior pastor of Greater Peace Baptist Church, Reverend Neal was Director of Christian Education, Youth Pastor, and Assistant Pastor at Greater Peace Baptist Church. He took immense pleasure in serving under his grandfather, Reverend E. L. Sullivan, whom he always admired.

Reverend Neal is married to Victoria Bass-Neal, a science teacher at George Washington Carver High School. They have one daughter, Meghan Martinez.

Reverend Neal serves as a member of various community and civic organizations. He has a strong commitment to serve the community and to spread the Word of God. Reverend Neal desires to nourish the total person as well as the spiritual soul with the Word of God. He has sponsored workshops on various topics, such as health, finances, and employment for the church and the community.

Reverend Neal is a proud member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and is an active member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Columbus (GA) Alumni Chapter. He is a member of the 100 Black Men of America (Columbus, Georgia Chapter).

Reverend Neal has previously served on the Mayor’s Commission on Unity, Diversity, and Prosperity and the Mayor’s Opportunity Center Task Force.

Reverend Neal was recently awarded the Emerging Leader Award at the 41 st Annual Black History Observance Breakfast.

In April 2026, Reverend Neal received the AKA Pearls of Promise Award for his impactful servant leadership to the community.

Currently, Reverend Neal serves as the President of the General Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia, and a Board Member and HR Director for the National Baptist Convention USA Inc.

Reverend Neal has been certified by the National Baptist Sunday School Publishing Board; consequently, he is a certified instructor for the local, state, and national Congress of Christian Education.

Reverend Neal is not only a preacher of the Word but also a teacher and motivator. His teaching and preaching ministry is a blessing to all who listen with receptive hearts. He believes in bringing down denominational walls so that all of God’s children can worship together. While Pastor Neal has distinguished himself by his great accomplishments and his service on various community boards, he feels it is only noteworthy that he is…. A Child of God!